Anglers view state spots in reform push
DANIEL BATEMAN which was due to come into play in September last year.
The strategy aims to restore fish stocks to a target of 60 per cent unfinished biomass to provide security for those working in the industry and enjoyable fishing experiences for others on the water.
It includes reforms such as harvest plans, new quotas, and regional management.
While restrictions were implemented with recreation fishers last year, including further bag, possession and catch limits, Mr Aubin said the commercial sector was yet to have the same level of regulation.
“We’ve had our third mass bleaching event on the Great Barrier Reef, so we need more resilient fish stock,” he said.
“I know this is not the ideal time to try and do anything at the moment, but it’s still got to be done. (The government) is fast approaching caretaker mode, with the impending state election.”
He said several fishers, including himself, were willing to run for state parliament if the reforms were not implemented before the election.
“It’s got to a point where there’s about a dozen of us statewide who are willing to run for marginal seats, and Barron River will be one, and I will be running if this doesn’t get sorted out,” he said.
Fisheries Minister Mark Furner said the government was committed to the fisheries reform process, which had been progressing and consulted widely on during the past five years. “We have heard and understand stakeholders’ calls for certainty through completion of the reform process, which was initiated in 2014 under the previous government,” he said.
“Given the current COVID-19 pandemic, we are heavily focused on protecting the lives of Queenslanders and we have also moved quickly to support industries and employment. Indeed, the seafood industry was among the first to receive assistance.”